Leveraging Local Digital Twins for planning age-friendly urban environments

Abstract

In an era of rapid urbanisation and an ageing population, innovative urban planning paradigms and tools are essential for creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities. Moreover, in the digital age, untapped potential exists for using disruptive technologies in urban planning to enhance evidence-based decision-making.

This study explored the promotion of age-friendly environments through the transformative potential of Local Digital Twins (LDTs) by integrating geographic information system (GIS) data, data analytics, and artificial intelligence. Tested in the European Commission-funded URBANAGE project, this study presents a digital twin-based Long-Term Urban Planner tool with simulation capabilities that allow for a comprehensive analysis and modelling of the effects of urban interventions. Two use cases are showcased: one suggesting public space intervention and the other tackling future demographic trends.

The main contribution of this study is the definition and development of an LDT using a modular-component-based approach that facilitates reuse and adaptation. Unlike isolated approaches, it provides a holistic solution that integrates social and technological domains. This study advances the understanding of the use of LDTs to create inclusive neighbourhoods by assessing neighbourhood age-friendliness and proposing informed urban interventions while underscoring the importance of robust data governance and capacity building among civil servants.